LONG KEY STATE PARK
The Spanish named this island "Cayo Vivora" or Rattlesnake Key because its shape resembles a snake with its jaws open. In the early 20th century, Long Key was the site of a luxurious fishing resort that was destroyed during the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935. Today, visitors can explore this island by canoeing through a chain of lagoons or hiking two land-based trails. The Golden Orb Trail leads visitors through five natural communities to an observation tower that provides a panoramic view of the island and its profusion of plant and animal life. Some of the best bonefishing in the Keys is found here. Full-facility campsites overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Located at Mile Marker 67.5, 67400 Overseas Highway.
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Long before the park was established, the subtropical climate, clear waters and abundance of marine life attracted explorers. The Calusa Indians lived off the plant and marine life before the arrival of the first Spanish settlers. After Spanish occupation, other travelers from nearby islands such as the Bahamas made their way to Long Key.
By 1912, the Florida Keys were no longer considered a remote area to travel. By this time, the Key West Extension of the Florida East Coast Railroad was completed, allowing Long Key to become an important depot. Henry Flagler, the founder of the railroad, also established the Long Key Fishing Club which was a Mecca for the world?s greatest saltwater fishermen. This productive era came to a temporary end when a hurricane destroyed the railroad and fishing club in 1935.
Day-UseFishingyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingWater/Electric Sitesyes
There are 60 full-facility campsites in the park, all overlooking the Atlantic ocean! Each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table, ground grill, water, and electricity. Three restrooms with hot showers, are centrally located. Also provided, is a dump station for gray and black water. Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance. The sites book quickly so make your plans well in advance.
Canoeing & Kayaking
One of three nature trails in the park, the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely "paddle" through the park?s shallow water lagoon. Canoe rentals and a self-guided brochure are available for this hour-long journey.
One of three nature trails in the park, the Long Key Lakes Canoe Trail provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely "paddle" through the park?s shallow water lagoon. Canoe rentals and a self-guided brochure are available for this hour-long journey.
Some of the best sport fishing in the Florida Keys are popular year-round. Saltwater fishing licenses are required in Florida.
many changes and not for the better. Campsites have been shortened. The canoe trail remains but no canoes are available to rent and dockage has been removed. This was once one of the best activities in the park. Many people are not aware that there are only a few sandy beaches in the entire Keys due to an offshore coral reef. This is NOT one of them.
I spent Thanksgiving 2010 at Long Key. Camped, kayaked and swam right from my camp site. You can rent kayaks and canoes there. Rest rooms and showers are clean. Great place to kick back and relax. 
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